Öckerö is located in Gothenburg’s northern archipelago and is connected to the neighbouring islands of Hönö and Hälsö by bridges. The island has around 3,500 year-round residents, making it the second most populated island after Hönö. The name Öckerö also refers to the municipality that includes ten islands: Björkö, Fotö, Grötö, Hyppeln, Hälsö, Hönö, Kalvsund, Källö-Knippla, Rörö and Öckerö.
The island offers a wide range of services, including grocery stores, a pharmacy, cafés, restaurants, and various types of accommodation. The harbour is a place for locals and visitors alike, with fishing boats, a guest marina, boat engine services and an active boatyard.
Hiking and nature
Öckerö is ideal for exploring on foot. Take a walk through the harbour area and experience the island’s boatbuilding and maritime traditions, or head west for untouched nature. The Archipelago Trail runs along the coast through open landscapes and out to the sea, with rest stops along the way. One popular area is Hjälvik, where a path leads out toward Rävholmarna.
Local heritage and a public herb garden
Next to Öckerö church, you’ll find the island’s heritage centre, with authentic 19th-century buildings showing what life used to be like in the archipelago. There’s also a public herb garden nearby where visitors can enjoy roses and other blooming plants in a peaceful setting.
Swimming, sauna and outdoor activities
Öckerö has plenty of swimming spots, from cliffs to beaches. Hjälvik also offers an accessible bathing area with a ramp.
Looking for a sauna experience? Try the Nimbus sauna, right by the sea, with a bathing ladder for year-round dips. You can book your session directly via their website.
The Prästängen area is a hub for sports and activities. Here you’ll find an ice rink, football pitches, skatepark, playground, beach volleyball court and access to the water. Larger events are often held here throughout the year.
Food and accommodation
There are several accommodation options on Öckerö. Bed & Bike Öckerö offers cosy island lodging with bike and kayak rentals. Nimbusgården has rooms, lunch service, a café and conference facilities. Öckerö Maritime Center is a training hotel with views of Björkö, Kalvsund and Grötö, also open to private guests.
Feeling hungry? Try Öckerö Hamncafé right by the water’s edge. They serve everything from prawn sandwiches and breakfast to daily lunch specials and homemade fika.
Getting here
From Gothenburg, take road 155 to the ferry terminal at Lilla Varholmen. The ferry to Öckerö is free of charge and runs around the clock. Bus: Line 290 takes you directly to Öckerö.
Bike: It’s about 20 km from central Gothenburg along a dedicated cycling route.
